“Indiana’s workforce is one of our greatest strengths. These grants, coupled with the work of organizations like RecycleForce, Keys2Work and 2nd Chance Indiana, will create a clear path to good careers for formerly incarcerated Hoosiers, help employers find qualified workers, and ensure more Hoosiers have the opportunity to build successful futures through meaningful work,” said Governor Mike Braun.
The two grants are part of the U.S. Department of Labor’s Reentry Employment in Skilled Trades, Advanced Manufacturing, Registered Apprenticeships, and Training (RESTART) initiative.
One $5.1 million RESTART grant was awarded to Keys2Work, which will serve as the lead grantee in partnership with RecycleForce and 2nd Chance Indiana. Through these nonprofits’ collaborative “Developing the Working Muscle” initiative, the organizations will expand workforce training, paid employment and career development opportunities for approximately 680 formerly incarcerated young adults ages 18 to 24 over the next three years.
Under the program, Keys2Work will coordinate participant recruitment, intake and case management, while RecycleForce and 2nd Chance Indiana will provide paid transitional employment, workforce training and career development opportunities designed to prepare participants for long-term employment.
Earlier this month, Governor Braun also announced the Indiana Department of Workforce Development received a separate $5.1 million RESTART grant to expand workforce training, registered apprenticeships and employment opportunities for formerly incarcerated adults across Indiana.
Together, the two investments represent a $10.2 million commitment to strengthening Indiana’s workforce while expanding opportunities for formerly incarcerated Hoosiers to gain valuable skills, secure employment and build successful futures.
These investments build on Governor Braun’s commitment to reducing recidivism by expanding pathways to meaningful work. Last year, Governor Braun signed an executive order aimed at improving reentry outcomes by strengthening education, workforce training and employment opportunities for incarcerated Hoosiers preparing to return to their communities.